Learn how to assess the health of our waterways by foraging for waterbugs!
You may not have noticed before, but our rivers and creeks are home to hundreds of different species of waterbugs! Some of these waterbugs are very sensitive to pollution and so through their presence or absence, we are able to determine whether a particular waterway is healthy or not. The data collected is nationally recognised and is shared with our local councils to provide up to date information about the health of our waterways. Collecting and identifying these waterbugs also happens to be a whole heap of fun!
Coordinated by Watergum and supported by the City of Gold Coast (Catchment Management Unit), the Water Quality Monitoring program is a collaborative effort between Gecko, Coomera River Catchment Group, Nerang River Keepers and Austinville Landcare.
We are heading out with the Austinville Crew! 621 Austinville Road, Cox’s Reserve. 8-10am.
What to bring
*Gum boots/water shoes. No one will be permitted to enter the water without shoes due to safety concerns.
*Sun protection: Natural non-polluting sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat, long sleeves
*Towel
*Lots of drinking water
*Glasses/contact lenses
*Pen/pencil
Please make sure to register to get all the updates on locations and times! This program is suitable for all age levels.
Website: www.watergum.org
Email: [email protected]
Please make sure that you’re aware of current covid-19 restrictions: https://www.qld.gov.au/health/conditions/health-alerts/coronavirus-covid-19